Candidacy for Migraine Surgery

Q: Dr. Eppley, I have been experiencing headaches in the occipital region for over 10 years. I’ve had injections and tried 3 different medications to no avail. It is to the point that I take 3 Alleve every other day. The pain even radiates down to my neck and shoulders and sometimes to the top of my ear. I wonder if this procedure would be helpful. My insurance is Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield. I’m really starting to worry about what the Aleve is doing to my body. I have not tried Botox injections yet (even though my Neurologist wanted me to try them) due to the cost. Interested to know your thoughts. The pain comes on the right side straight over from the bottom of my ear in that little indention.

A: The critical questions in candidacy for migraine surgery are: 1) does the origin and location of the migraines coincide with a cranial nerve exit point from the skull/location and 2) does it respond to Botox injections.

Based on your description it is it clear where the exact location of the migraines is A picture pointing to it would be helpful. Having the migraine location receive Botox injections would also provide useful information.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana